How Long Does Capsicum Take to Grow?

Capsicum is a warm-season crop that takes time to establish before producing fruit. From seed to harvest, the full growing cycle is usually 14–20 weeks depending on climate and variety.

Seed germination: 7–14 days at soil temperatures between 20–28°C.
Seedling stage: 4–6 weeks before transplanting into the garden or larger pots.
Vegetative growth: 4–6 weeks of leaf and stem development.
Flowering & fruit set: Begins 8–10 weeks after planting.
Fruit development: 6–8 weeks from flowering until full-sized capsicums are ready to pick.

The total time varies by region. In warmer northern Australia, growth is faster, while in southern states the season is longer and slower due to cooler nights.

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What Influences Capsicum Growth Time?

Climate: Warm, frost-free conditions speed up growth. Cold weather delays flowering and fruit set.
Soil temperature: Seeds germinate quickly at 20–28°C. Below 18°C, germination is slow or patchy.
Variety: Smaller-fruited capsicums mature earlier. Larger bell peppers take longer.
Fertiliser: Balanced feeding accelerates growth. Too much nitrogen delays fruiting.
Watering: Consistent moisture helps plants set fruit faster. Water stress slows growth.

On average, expect 3–4 months from sowing seeds to your first harvest. Picking fruit regularly also encourages more flowers and ongoing production.

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Capsicum Growth FAQ

How long does capsicum take to grow from seed? Around 14–20 weeks from germination to harvest.
When will capsicum start flowering? Usually 8–10 weeks after planting seedlings.
How long until green capsicums turn red? About 2–3 extra weeks on the plant after reaching full size.
Do capsicums grow faster in pots? Pots warm up quicker, so plants may establish faster, but consistent feeding is essential.
Why is my capsicum taking so long to fruit? Often due to cold weather, overfertilisation with nitrogen, or poor pollination.